Iconic Elegance: High Tea in Hawai'i at The Moana Surfrider

On a recent visit to the island of Oahu, I had the pleasure of experiencing the afternoon High Tea service on the Veranda at The Moana Surfrider Hotel. The hotel, overlooking the ocean and wrapped around a century-old banyan tree, provides a welcome respite from Waikiki's busy streets and energetic beach scene. When I lived on the island, I'd always thought it was a calming refuge and would spend afternoons in the courtyard, rocking in the wooden chairs under that very banyan. Returning now, years later, I found that same sense of stillness, wrapped in the quiet luxury of an afternoon tea service that honors the hotel’s storied past.

As the Pacific breeze cooled the afternoon air, we settled into our seats on the veranda. The experience began with our friendly attendant, Chocolate, guiding us through the tea selection. The menu features a thoughtfully curated collection of loose-leaf teas, most of them locally sourced. I opt for the jasmine — always my favorite. My partner goes for Mangoes at the Moana, a fragrant signature blend of black tea, mango and pineapple that perfectly complements the oceanfront setting.

We were treated to the Royal Tea service, which includes soup du jour, savory and sweet options to share, and a tea-infused mimosa flight. When the three-tiered stand arrived, we were presented with delicate finger sandwiches, scones with mascarpone cream and lilikoi curd and other treats that kept us eager to try the next new bite. These small indulgences weren’t only visually stunning, but they offered a sophisticated blend of traditional high tea techniques with island ingredients.

What truly elevates this experience beyond mere refreshment is the setting. The veranda provides unobstructed views of Waikiki Beach, with Diamond Head crater visible in the distance. The rhythmic sound of the waves creates a soothing soundtrack as you dine.

Around us, friends laughed over shared tea, couples leaned in for intimate conversations and mothers and daughters shared a memorable afternoon together. We savored the unhurried pace of the experience. We lingered over our final cups of tea. We sat with the beautiful wooden hand fans that our attendant thoughtfully gifted us and drank in the atmosphere.

The Moana Surfrider’s afternoon tea offers more than refreshment. It provides a window into Hawaii’s complex cultural history, in a space where Eastern and Western traditions intertwine to create something distinctly its own. Like the hotel itself, this experience stands as a testament to elegance that never goes out of style.

This experience is recommended for travelers who enjoy and appreciate beauty and tradition and travelers who are seeking a unique experience. Travelers could also enjoy it as a mother-daughter getaway, couples who are looking for a romantic afternoon or anyone who's wanting to enjoy a peaceful moment in the quiet luxury of this historic surfside hotel.

Visit the mini museum on the second floor of the hotel to get a glimpse of the hotel’s unique history and timeline. This is such a hidden gem!

For more travel inspiration and recommendations, check out our Hawai'i page.